Traditionally the land of the Cadigal people (area was known as Carrageen or Kurragheen).
New South Wales
Vessel is a Victorian Terrace situated in a quiet enclave amidst vibrant Darlinghurst. The philosophy for the project was to design a bare stage for lifes theatre to fill and empty.
Our response to early heritage advice that a new addition would require a pitched roof form was to take this further and create a double skylit void in a folded roof form. These two funnels of light explore the fullness of the void invoking the feeling of being inside a ceramic vessel which opens at the top and in which the space inside the object creates the form.
The design is a testament to focussing on the creation of an atmosphere rather than the embellishment of spaces. The scrutiny and distilling down of whats essential to house within a home reveals the value of empty space in this design; how joy, discovery and meaning emerge from an empty stage.
Commendation for Residential – Houses (Alterations and Additions)
Vessel holds the essence of the past and creates a bespoke environment to live today. Throughout the project the grandeur and generosity of the Victorian architecture is amplified and finds a counterpart in the new modern extension. Dramatic angled vaulted brick skylights create an entertaining wing of equivalent beauty to the original building.
Extreme care has been taken with the interiors, working with the client to meet the specificity of their needs and aesthetic sensibilities to assure calm and order throughout. The design intent is executed with precision, and a restrained colour and material palette provides clarity and pureness to the experience.
In the client’s words, Madeleine Blanchfield Architects have designed a versatile home that adapts through the day and year to enhance our lives. Some days its a calm, urban retreat from the busy city outside that we love so much. Other days, its a practical place where we work and enjoy spending time with our family and friends.
We love how the light changes, bright and uplifting in the morning becoming dark and moody in the evening. The mix of heritage and contemporary architecture and choice of materials makes the space feel soft and warm yet practical and functional.
Atelier Lab, Stylist
Dangar Barin Smith, Landscape Consultant
JHA Engineers, Stormwater Engineer
Mersonn Pty Ltd, Town Planner
PMI Engineers, Structural Engineer
Tom Ferguson, Photographer
Zoltan Kovacs Architect, Heritage Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
